📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Saminathan Suresh
Weather
Chennai Air Quality Hits 'Very Poor' Level as AQI Surpasses 300 on Diwali
✍️ NDTV Top
🗓 10 Nov 2026, 08:36 AM
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Valasaravakkam in southwest Chennai recorded the highest AQI at 343 on Diwali, with Nungambakkam and Sowcarpet following at 332 and 311 respectively, marking the city’s air quality as 'Very Poor'.
Valasaravakkam, a densely populated residential area in southwest Chennai, registered an AQI of 343 on Diwali, the highest in the city. The figure places the air quality in the 'Very Poor' category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board.
Nungambakkam in central Chennai followed closely with an AQI of 332, while Sowcarpet, a busy commercial hub in north‑central Chennai, recorded 311. The spike is attributed largely to the massive fireworks displays that accompany the festival.
City officials warned residents to limit outdoor activities and advised vulnerable groups to stay indoors. The Chennai Pollution Control Board has urged the public to use masks and to keep windows closed during peak pollution hours.
The government has also called for stricter enforcement of firework regulations and is exploring measures to reduce emissions from vehicular traffic during the festive season.
Nungambakkam in central Chennai followed closely with an AQI of 332, while Sowcarpet, a busy commercial hub in north‑central Chennai, recorded 311. The spike is attributed largely to the massive fireworks displays that accompany the festival.
City officials warned residents to limit outdoor activities and advised vulnerable groups to stay indoors. The Chennai Pollution Control Board has urged the public to use masks and to keep windows closed during peak pollution hours.
The government has also called for stricter enforcement of firework regulations and is exploring measures to reduce emissions from vehicular traffic during the festive season.